LOT Polish Airlines Baggage Policy +1-866-666-0215
LOT Polish Airlines Baggage Policy is a critical component of travel planning, varying significantly based on the ticket type purchased, the cabin class flown, the specific route, and the passenger's status within the Miles & More frequent flyer program. Understanding these nuances is essential to avoid unexpected fees and ensure a smooth journey. The policy is primarily structured around a combination of weight and piece concepts, with distinct allowances for checked and cabin baggage.
Checked Baggage Allowance:
LOT's checked baggage allowance is predominantly determined by the fare type booked and the cabin class:
-
Economy Class:
-
Economy Light: This is the most restrictive fare, typically offering no free checked baggage allowance. Passengers booking this fare must purchase baggage in advance online or pay a higher fee at the airport if they wish to check luggage.
-
Economy Standard/Promo: This is the most common Economy fare. It generally includes one piece of checked baggage. The standard weight limit for this single piece is 23 kg (50 lbs). On routes using the weight system (most of the world), this means one bag up to 23kg. On routes to/from the Americas (using the piece system), it's one bag, also typically limited to 23kg.
-
Economy Flex: This more flexible fare usually includes the same one piece up to 23kg as Economy Standard, but may offer additional benefits like free seat selection or changes.
-
Premium Economy Class: Passengers traveling in Premium Economy enjoy a more generous allowance. They typically receive two pieces of checked baggage. Each piece is subject to a weight limit of 23 kg (50 lbs). Under the weight system, this totals 46kg. Under the piece system for America's routes, it's two separate bags.
-
Business Class: Business Class offers the highest standard checked baggage allowance. Passengers are typically entitled to two pieces of checked baggage. Crucially, each piece has a higher weight limit of 32 kg (70 lbs). This means a total allowance of 64kg under the weight system. On America's routes (piece system), the allowance is two pieces, each also limited to 32kg.
Cabin Baggage (Carry-On) Allowance:
LOT's cabin baggage policy is strictly enforced, particularly regarding weight limits:
-
Standard Allowance: All passengers, regardless of cabin class, are entitled to bring one standard cabin bag plus one personal item.
-
Standard Cabin Bag Dimensions: The maximum dimensions for the main cabin bag are 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm (22 in x 16 in x 9 in). This includes wheels and handles. This bag must fit within the overhead locker or under the seat in front.
-
Personal Item Dimensions: The personal item (such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack) must have maximum dimensions of 40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm (16 in x 12 in x 6 in) and must fit completely under the seat in front of you.
-
Weight Limits: This is a critical point of difference and strict enforcement:
-
Economy Class (Light, Standard, Flex) & Premium Economy: The standard cabin bag has a strict weight limit of 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
-
Business Class: The standard cabin bag has a higher strict weight limit of 10 kg (22 lbs).
-
Enforcement: Cabin baggage is subject to size and weight checks at the gate. Bags exceeding the dimensions will not be permitted in the cabin and must be checked (potentially for a fee). Bags exceeding the weight limit (8kg or 10kg) will also be gate-checked and the passenger will be charged the applicable excess baggage fee.
Special Items and Exceptions:
-
Infants: Passengers traveling with an infant (under 2 years old not occupying a seat) are typically entitled to one checked bag (max 10 kg / 22 lbs) in addition to their own baggage allowance, plus a collapsible stroller or baby buggy which can be checked at the gate or at the check-in desk free of charge.
-
Musical Instruments: Small musical instruments that fit within the cabin baggage dimensions and weight limits can be carried in the cabin if space permits. Larger instruments must be checked as baggage, often as a single oversized item, and will incur specific fees.
-
Sports Equipment: Items like golf clubs, skis, snowboards, bicycles, and diving equipment are accepted as checked baggage but are subject to specific size, weight, and packaging requirements, and incur additional fees. These fees vary depending on the item and route.
-
Pets: Small cats and dogs (subject to size and carrier dimensions) may be carried in the cabin for a fee, provided they fit under the seat. Larger pets travel in the cargo hold as checked baggage, also for a fee, and require advance booking and specific health documentation.
-
Excess Baggage: Passengers exceeding their free checked baggage allowance will be charged excess fees. These fees are calculated based on the weight of the excess or the number of extra pieces, whichever is applicable based on the route's system (weight or piece). Fees are significantly cheaper if paid online in advance via LOT's website or call center, compared to paying at the airport check-in counter or gate.
-
Oversized/Overweight Bags: Bags exceeding the standard dimensions (even if within weight limits) or the standard weight limits (even if within dimensions) will incur additional fees per bag. The maximum weight for any single checked bag is typically 32 kg (70 lbs).
Key Considerations and Tips:
-
Fare is Paramount: The specific baggage allowance is tied directly to the fare type purchased. Always check the baggage details when booking, especially for promotional or "Light" fares.
-
Route Matters: Be aware of whether your route uses the weight system (most of the world) or the piece system (primarily routes to/from the Americas), as this affects how your allowance is applied.
-
Cabin Baggage Weight is Strict: The 8kg (Economy/Premium Economy) and 10kg (Business) limits are rigorously enforced at the gate. Use a luggage scale at home to avoid surprises and fees.
-
Check Official Sources: Airline policies can change. Always verify your exact allowance, fees, and any restrictions by logging into your booking on the LOT Polish Airlines website or consulting their official "Baggage" section before travel. Your booking confirmation also details your specific allowance.
-
Pre-Pay Online: If you know you will exceed your free allowance, pre-paying for extra baggage online is highly recommended as it offers substantial savings compared to airport rates.
-
Miles & More Status: While LOT's standard policy is fare-based, higher-tier Miles & More status (Senator, HON Circle) may provide additional free baggage allowances or benefits, which should be checked directly with the Miles & More program.
In conclusion, LOT Polish Airlines employs a detailed and fare-dependent baggage policy. Passengers must carefully review their ticket type and route specifics to understand their checked and cabin baggage entitlements, paying close attention to the strictly enforced weight limits for cabin bags. Planning ahead, pre-paying for extra baggage if needed, and verifying details on the official LOT website are the best strategies to ensure your baggage travels smoothly and cost-effectively.